Application Requirements

  1. English language proficiency. KAUST requires a minimum TOEFL score of 79 on the IBT (Internet Based Test) or 6.0 on the IELTS (International English Language Testing System). Only official TOEFL or IELTS scores will be accepted. A TOEFL or IELTS score is not required if the applicant received a degree from an accredited institution in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Ireland, Australia, or New Zealand.
  2. Official, complete university transcript/mark sheets/graduation certificate/academic record from every institution previously attended. A scan of the official transcript provided by the university in the native language must be uploaded into the online application along with the certified English translation. Transcripts must include the university grading scale for all documents submitted. If offered admission, an official final transcript must be sent to the Office of Admissions prior to arrival (during the onboarding process) in a sealed envelope.
  3. Three letters of recommendation submitted on your behalf. Recommendation letters should be submitted through the application directly from the recommender. Recommenders should provide details about how they know your work, as well as comparative statements (e.g., top 1% of class, best in past five years, etc.), and insight into research ability.
  4. Curriculum vitae (CV).

More information on application requirements and financial support is available here.